It's only at Akanksha that you will see a helper complete her BEd and come back to teach at the same school. Not only was I encouraged to study and get a degree, but I was also guided every step of the way by people at Akanksha on how to go about it.
My journey at Akanksha began by chance more than 20 years ago. My niece, Sanjana — who is now my colleague — was enrolled at the Akanksha centre in Bandra West. Her mother found out that the helper at the centre had left and that Prachi Didi, the centre head, was looking for someone to fill the role. I was not working at the time, so my sister-in-law asked if I would be interested in applying.
"It's only at Akanksha that you will see a helper complete her BEd and come back to teach at the same school."
The job was for two and a half hours a day and involved looking after children — which I loved doing — so I took it up.
It was a big change for me. Before joining Akanksha, I was shy and underconfident. I wouldn't even go to the corner shop in my colony alone. But here, I had to accompany Prachi Didi into the community and inform parents about parent-teacher meetings.
After a few times, she told me to go out alone. That's how I began to feel confident talking to people on my own.
When the centre closed and the school started in Lakshmi Nagar in 2013, everyone encouraged me to complete my studies — I had dropped out after Grade 11. Aureen Didi, the social worker, ensured that I enrolled in a correspondence course from Yashwantrao Chavan University.
Taking up studies after two decades was not easy. I had to juggle college with work and household chores. I managed only because of the support from the Akanksha system. Prachi Didi gave me permission to study while in school. I never had to struggle for leave, nor was my salary ever cut for taking time off. In fact, Aureen Didi would file my leave application before I could even ask!
In 2018, when I completed my graduation, Prachi Didi offered me an admin job. But I had always dreamt of teaching children, so I decided to pursue my BEd. It was not easy. I was the oldest in my class and not very tech-savvy. Plus, because of COVID, classes and exams moved online. Despite the challenges, I forged ahead. In 2021, I got my degree and started teaching Hindi and Marathi here.
I have come a long way from my early years at Akanksha, when I didn't even know how to take an auto ride on my own. Two years ago, I took my first-ever flight to Nagpur for work. I was invited to speak to other helpers and encourage them to study further, just like I did. At Akanksha, helpers are valued.
Prachi Didi has been my biggest motivator in life. We have walked this journey together for over two decades. When I lacked confidence and direction, it was her belief in me and her constant guidance that helped me shape my vision and find my strength.
Today, when I look back, my heart is full of gratitude. From starting as a helper to now standing in a classroom and educating young minds, I have been able to fulfil a dream I once never imagined possible. This journey would not have been possible without her faith, support, and encouragement.
Ever since I became a teacher, I have seen a change in how people look at me — at home and in my neighbourhood. Recently, two men in my colony approached me to understand how they could complete their education. It felt good.
Now that I am teaching children, I often speak about the value of education. I tell them about an Akanksha student who grew up in a tiny home but was able to buy a 2BHK flat because of the education he received. I also encourage parents to study. I keep telling everyone that education can change their life. I know because it changed mine.
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